Project description
Local action group Mezilesí, based in Poděbrady, Czechia, aims to establish a citizen-led energy community across a rural region of 29 municipalities in the Poděbrady area. The initiative focuses on increasing local energy self-sufficiency through the collective production, sharing and efficient use of renewable energy, while also addressing energy poverty and supporting local economic development. It builds on ongoing regional planning efforts and seeks to create a coordinated model for energy sharing across dispersed settlements.
- Challenges addressed
The initiative addresses key challenges such as limited investment capacity, reliance on external energy suppliers and the complexity of implementing community energy systems in rural contexts, while offering a replicable model for similar regions.
- Technology
The initiative incorporates a broad technological mix including solar, hydropower, biofuels, heat pumps, storage and battery systems, flexible household devices, energy efficiency measures, and building renovations.
- Support received under CEAH
Through CEAH technical assistance, the project is developing technical feasibility studies, regulatory frameworks and financial models to support implementation. It also aims to strengthen local capacities by introducing digital tools for energy management and fostering stakeholder engagement.
1. Project Scoping, Site Assessment and Initial Technical–Commercial Baseline
Establishes a baseline understanding of existing assets, potential sites, and demand to support subsequent analysis and decision-making. Key deliverables include:- A Scoping and Site Assessment Report, summarising assets, sites, and key demand centres
- An Indicative Generation and Demand Baseline, outlining supply, demand, and surplus potential
- Initial Technical–Commercial Insights, identifying key opportunities and constraints
2. Communication and Stakeholder Engagement Strategy Support
This activity supports the development of a clear value proposition and targeted engagement approach to align stakeholders and mobilise participation. Key deliverables include:- Commercial Assessment Analysis Results, articulating the value proposition for key stakeholder
- Stakeholder-facing Materials, including presentations and engagement tools
- A Case Study Summary, highlighting relevant examples and lessons learned
3. Technical Analysis of Supply and Demand
Assesses generation and consumption patterns to evaluate system viability and identify optimal configurations. Key deliverables include:- A Supply–Demand Analysis Report, assessing generation and consumption alignment
- Scenario Modelling Outputs, presenting viable configurations
- Generation and Consumption Profiles, outlining expected production and demand patterns
- Energy Sharing Feasibility Insights, assessing approaches under regulatory conditions
4. Comprehensive Business Plan and Project Proposal
Develops a coherent and decision-ready project framework integrating technical, financial, and regulatory inputs. Key deliverables include:- A Business Plan, outlining project rationale, structure, and implementation pathway
- A Financial Model, assessing scenarios and minimum viable scale
- A Project Proposal, providing a concise summary for decision-making
- A High-level Energy Sharing and Commercial Framework, defining allocation principles
5. Analysis of the Legal and Regulatory Framework
This activity maps the relevant legal and regulatory context to ensure compliant and informed project development. Key deliverables include:- A Legal and Regulatory Context Report, outlining applicable frameworks, requirements, and constraints
6. Legal Structuring, Governance Design and Founding Documents
Defines the legal structure, governance model, and key documentation required for implementation. Key deliverables include:- A Legal Form Recommendation Memo, identifying the preferred structure
- Draft statutes and Founding Documents, defining governance and membership rules
- Contractual Templates, outlining key agreements and relationships
More information on the initiative can be found here on their website: MAS Mezilesí z.s. – MAS Mezilesí z.s.